Section 60I Certificate Explained

What is a Section 60I Certificate?

A Section 60I certificate is a document confirming you've attempted (or been exempt from) Family Dispute Resolution before applying to court for parenting orders.

Why Is It Required?

The Family Law Act requires parties to genuinely try to resolve parenting disputes before going to court. The certificate proves you've done this.

Types of Certificates

Certificate Issued

Different certificates indicate different outcomes:

That FDR was attended and:

All parties made a genuine effort (both tried)

One party did not make a genuine effort (names who didn't try)

The matter is not appropriate for FDR

That FDR was not attended because:

The other party failed to attend

The matter is not appropriate for FDR (e.g., family violence)

There is an exemption

How to Get One

Attend FDR

1. Book with an FDR practitioner (Family Relationship Centre or private)

2. Attend intake assessment 3. Attend FDR sessions (or attempt to) 4. Receive certificate based on outcome

Timeframe

Certificates are valid for 12 months from the date of issue.

When You Don't Need One

Exemptions

You may not need a Section 60I certificate if:

There are allegations of family violence or child abuse

Urgency (risk of family violence or child abuse)

One party is unable to participate (e.g., lives overseas)

Previous FDR within 12 months on the same issue

Contravention application (breach of existing orders)

Consent orders application

Urgent Applications

For urgent matters, you can apply without a certificate. The court will assess whether exemption applies.

What the Court Does

Without Certificate

The court will usually:

Require explanation for no certificate

May order you to attend FDR

May delay proceedings until FDR attempted

With Certificate

The court accepts the certificate and proceeds with your application.

Tips

- Don't delay FDR - get the certificate early

Attend genuinely - not just to "tick a box"

Keep your certificate safe

Note the 12-month validity period